February 2024 Southport Magazine by Southport Magazine

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Southport Magazine 1

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FROM THE PUBLISHERS

elcome to the Love issue! In the gray days of February, Valentine’s Day reminds us of our love of many things — our family, our friends, and living in a place with temperatures in the upper 60s in January! This month, we have a story on a lovely seamstress who deigns even lovelier bridal gowns, right here in Brunswick County, and a feature on The Barn at Rock Creek, a picturesque, family-run event venue that’s the perfect rustic backdrop for weddings and other celebrations. There’s also a story about how the love of family history and local Gullah Geechee culture grew into the NC Rice Festival. We know you’ll find something to LOVE this month.

STAFF EDITOR

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jeffrey Stites

McKenzie Barwick Carla Edstrom Patty Langer Loiuse Sheffield-Baccarny Lisa P. Stites Jeffrey Stites

editor@southportmag.com 211

ASSISTANT EDITOR

lisa@southportmag.com

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Lisa P. Stites

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PUBLISHER & SALES

Liz Brinker

Jeffrey Stites

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Biz Feature

Fairy Godmother

Sinderellas Rockefellas Spins Fairy Tales Into Reality For Brunswick County Brides STORY BY PATRICIA LANGER, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

n the classic Disney movie “Cinderella,” an ordinary young woman is transformed into a beautiful princess with just the flick of a wand by her fairy godmother. In reality, there might be a bit more involved in that sort of transformation. Measurements, pattern making, fittings, and many hours of tedious sewing, for starters. But still, it is possible, and a real-life fairy godmother lives in our midst, giving brides-to-be their very own Cinderella moment by creating the wedding gown of their dreams. Samantha Redfern, brilliant designer and seamstress, is the owner of Sinderellas Rockefellas bridal boutique in Southport, and she wants every bride to “feel as beautiful as you are!”

Samantha Redfern has been creating unique, custom fit, bridal gowns for all types of brides since she began her home-based business in the spring of 2020. Her setup is similar to any other bridal boutique. A room in the front of the house is designed for brides to model gowns. Standing on a pedestal, surrounded by tall mirrors, they can see all the beautiful dress details from every angle. There’s plenty of comfy seating for friends and family, who are encouraged to come. The bright space is great for photos, complete with the ubiquitous “I said YES to the dress” sign for Instagram and

Facebook posts. A room in the back of the house serves as a spacious dressing room, all four walls lined with racks of gorgeous sample gowns. (I felt like I was in a fairy tale during this interview, surrounded by so many beautiful, flowy dresses!) Sinderellas carries samples to fit all body shapes and sizes. Brides don’t have to struggle holding up a dress that’s way to big, or worse yet, feel embarrassed trying on a gown several sizes too small. Gowns range from trendy to classic, glitzy to understated, casual to elegant. Many of the dresses have linings in hues of gray, blush, or champagne that highlight the exquisite lace and beadwork. All of the gowns are made with high quality materials. Prices range from $1,500 to just less than $4,700. Samantha’s two-car garage has been converted into the “engine room” were she works her magic with commercial sewing machines, cutting tables, and mannequins. She designs all the gowns herself, then sends the materials out to be sewn at a garment fac-

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

tory in California. Samantha assigns a reference number to each gown she designs and when a particular style is purchased for the first time, she names the gown after the bride who bought it. Talk about a fairy tale!

From Fashion Executive to Hollywood Costumes and Reality TV Samantha Redfern is cheerful, chatty and utterly unpretentious. But don’t let her kind nature or her cozy home-based business fool you. This designer has more credentials than most! Before moving to the United States from England in 2009, Samantha had an amazing career in the fashion industry. After graduating from fashion college, she began her career path working in a sewing factory as a garment technologist. Although some in the fashion industry snub their noses at factory sewers, Samantha says that experience was invaluable and she credits it for her design and sewing expertise.

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She moved up the ranks quickly as a lingerie and nightwear designer. “I always loved lace,” she explained. And she travelled around the globe visiting offshore factories and attending fashion shows. Eventually, she became a design executive with a major manufacturer for the British retailer Marks & Spencer, enjoying a posh office on Baker Street in London. But when Samantha moved to the United States, she was discouraged with her attempts to break into the American fashion industry. She settled with a job as a seamstress, mainly doing alterations, while raising her children. Clearly, however, she was not an ordi-

nary seamstress, but one whose talents garnered notice in the fashion world, both locally and beyond. When I asked Samantha about the autographed pictures of movie stars that line her hallway, she told me that she worked on costume production for the 2014 movie Safe Haven. She designed several outfits for Josh Duhamel and Julianne Hough’s characters. “I made the red bikini Julianne Hough wore in that movie! She was lovely to work with,” Samantha recalled. Samantha said she had her good friend, Betsy Blee, the first female to pilot the Bald Head Ferry, to thank for that job. Betsy was hired by producers of “Safe Haven” to provide water shuttle service for the cast and crew during filming. When she overheard a conversation about the need for garment makers, she introduced them to Samantha Redfern. That same year, Samantha was selected to appear as an industry professional on the Lifetime Channel’s reality television show “The 24-Hour Catwalk.” The show, which ran 10 episodes in 2012, featured four contestants who competed to design three outfits in just 24 hours, working with a team of sewers. Smantha’s skills as a sewer were highlighted frequently on the show, and by the end of filming, fashion designer Cynthia

Rowley, one of the judges, offered her a job in New Your City As life would have it, however, the timing was all wrong. Samantha and her family were living in Ohio and her three children had active lives that she did not want to disrupt. Looking back, she has no regrets and says she fully enjoyed her 15

minutes of tv fame. “It was terrific! I loved it!” Samantha also worked on costumes for the 2016 movie “Providence,” after being approached by film scouts who noticed her unique sportswear at a spring market in Franklin Park. In addition to her bridal business, Samantha has her own line of sportswear called Immi Activewear USA. She designs flattering yet practical clothing for running, golfing, yoga, pickleball,

and more. Her colorful skorts have hidden pockets to hold keys, credit cards and water bottles, eliminating the need for fanny packs (thank goodness!) Immi Activewear

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Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

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is sold locally at Crossroads, a Gathering Place in Oak Island and on Facebook. Creating a Dream The seed money for Sinderellas came from an unexpected inheritance when Samantha’s sister died suddenly in 2019, the same year she lost her mother to cancer. After overcoming her shock and grief, Samantha vowed to make something good come from the tragedy. “I wanted to do something with the money that would make people happy. Giving brides their dream gown is a wonderful way

to honor my mum and my sister.” Listening to Samantha tell me how she approaches each bride, I can only imagine how happy she makes them feel. With her charming British accent and equally charming personality, I suggest that she really could be a fairy godmother. “My brides call me Mary Poppins!” she responds with pleasure. Buying a gown from Sinderellas is personalized experience, very different from the fancy boutiques. There are no intimidating sales ladies showing you gowns way over your budget or dresses that look nothing like your style. An appointment at Sinderellas lasts about 2-3 hours and goes something like this: Samantha sits down with the bride to discuss what type of wedding she is planning and what style gown she thinks she wants. Samantha asks about the venue, the theme, the season and the color scheme. Then she considers what style and fit the bride is looking for. Does she want lots of glitz and sparkle, or something more serene and elegant? A full skirt or a mermaid tail? Samantha takes her time until she thinks she knows how each bride envisions herself on her wedding day. Then she asks about budget to avoid any awkwardness or unnecessary heartbreak. Once she’s got it, she selects five to six sample gowns for the future bride to try on.

Biz Feature

“Most brides pick one of the first three gowns I select and never get to the rest,” Samantha told me proudly. At Sinderellas, brides can make tweaks to a sample gown if they want something slightly different. “Sometimes a bride loves a particular gown, but wishes it had sleeves or more lace or a different neckline. I can do all that.” Samantha reminds each bride that comfort and fit is equally as important as appearance when considering gowns. “I tell them they need to consider how they feel in a gown, since they won’t be standing still at their wedding. They’ll be

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talking to guests, taking pictures, eating and dancing.” Once the dress is chosen, Samantha takes careful measurements to create a custom fit dress pattern, which she then sends to a sewing shop in California. When the gown comes in, it usually doesn’t require any alterations, saving brides a big expense. The only thing left for Samantha to do at that point is creates the bustle in the back. Growth Leads to Expansion Sinderella’s has grown considerably over the last few years, from the sale of four gowns in its first year to 16 in 2023. This year is off to a robust start, with 10 gowns commissioned for spring. The success has propelled Samantha to secure a retail shop on Long Beach Road, which she hopes to open in a few months. The larger space will allow her to carry more dress samples and will increase business visibility. Sinderellas Rockefellas will also have a satellite location on Southport-Supply Road that will carry tuxedo rentals, as well as discontinued bridal gowns at sale prices. Samantha hopes to hire some much-needed help as her business expands, but she has no intention of changing the way she operates. Sinderellas Rockefellas will continue to offer a uniquely personal experience, creating custom-fit gowns and giving each bride her very own Cinderella story. For more information, call Samantha Redfern at 910-363-4403 or visit Sinderellas Rockefellas on Facebook.

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Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

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COMMUNITY

Secret Suffragist

a celebration of that event. In anticipation, I researched Southport’s history in 1920. I came across Annie’s letters which are stored in the archives of the National Woman’s Party in the Library of Congress.

Annie Clemmons Honored At Symposium

The more I learned about Annie the more I admired her initiative and self-confidence. She was a young, unmarried, Black woman living in a small Southern town during the Jim Crow era. When she was rejected at the courthouse, she could easily have given up. Instead, she believed in herself enough and valued her voting rights enough to write to Washington, D.C. to ask for help.

STORY BY JEFFREY STITES AND LIZ FULLER, PHOTOS CONTYRIBUTED

outhport will celebrate a historic hometown hero on Friday, Feb 9 at 6 PM (doors open 5:30 pm) on the opening night of the 12th Annual Brunswick County Black History Symposium. Acclaimed actor/storyteller Ms. Carolyn Evans will be premiering her one-woman show portraying Miss Annie Clemmons (1890-1956), a Black Southport woman who worked for the right to vote. At the same event, Liz Fuller, President of the Southport Historical Society, will be launching her new book on Annie Clemmons, entitled “Southport’s Secret Suffragist.” Annie Clemmons was born and raised on E. Brown Street in Southport. She turned 30 the year that the 19th Amendment was passed, guaranteeing women the right to vote. Annie tried to register to vote at the Brunswick County Courthouse on Moore Street but was refused because of the color of her skin. Undaunted, she wrote to the National Woman’s Party in Washington, D.C. asking for help. Annie kept the contents of these letters a secret for the rest of her life.

Liz Fuller

When did you, personally, become aware of Annie Clemmons’ story? What drew you to her story? Liz: The year 2020 was the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment. The Southport Historical Society put together

The following interview is with actor, Carolyn Evans, and author, Liz Fuller.

Liz, how did you get Carolyn Evans to portray Annie Clemmons? We are very fortunate to have a relationship with actor and storyteller, Carolyn Evans. Carolyn has been working with Southport historian Donnie Joyner and the Brunswick Black History Symposium for at least the past six years. It’s become a tradition for Carolyn to open the threeday event with the dramatic portrayal of a strong Black woman from U.S. history. In previous years she has portrayed Harriet

Carolyn Evans

Tubman, Stagecoach Mary, Mary Ann Cord, Mrs. Mamie Till Mobley, and Sojourner Truth. When Donnie and I approached Carolyn about Miss Annie’s story, she immediately saw the importance of her history and the creative potential in dramatizing her story. This will be the first time the life story of a Black woman from Southport has been professionally dramatized.

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

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I assumed that everyone in Southport was already familiar with her story. But as I asked around, I learned that Annie had kept her letters secret and that her story wasn’t known. So I started sharing her story in presentations and videos. Carolyn: I became aware of Annie Clemmons when Liz told me the story of a Black woman in Southport who had wanted so much to vote. Liz thought Annie might be someone that I would want to portray. I was drawn to Annie’s story because I have family from North Carolina, and knowing that my people came from there and learning that neither the men nor the women were able to vote was a surprise. I always thought of North Carolina as a progressive state. My father’s family was from Mississippi so I knew they couldn’t vote but I didn’t think the same was true in my mother’s state. I realized my grandmother probably never voted. It gave me a look into my ancestors’ history, and that was good for me. Freedom was the most important thing and to keep your freedom, you needed citizenship, and to keep your citizenship you needed to vote. Not having the vote means there’s a possibility of your free-

dom being taken away at any time. My mother and grandmother left North Carolina not just for economic reasons but because they didn’t have a voice and didn’t have rights.

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to vote, which was certainly important and just. But White suffragists at least had some semblance of representation through their fathers, husbands, brothers, and sons who were all able to vote. At that time in North Carolina, Black citizens had no representation from either gender. This made the passage of the 19th Amendment and the possibility of Black women gaining the right to

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Liz: In her letters, Annie used her own experiences and the experiences of her seven brothers to illustrate the plight of all Black men and women in Brunswick County at that time. Her situation highlights a significant difference between Black and White women who were seeking the vote. White suffragists were seeking their personal right

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Was she active in advocating for the vote for women as well as for what would become the Civil Rights Act? Or was it always all tied Brunswick County Courthouse together, as in “Hey, everyone should be able to vote”

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Community vote even more significant. It was 45 more years before the Voting Rights Act passed in 1965.

How long have you been working on your book and the performance? Liz: In the beginning, I was just doing research and looking for ways to share Annie’s story. That’s when we came up with the idea of having Carolyn turn Annie’s life into a historical dramatization. I provided my initial research to Carolyn as a basis for her creative work. Along the way, I realized that there was much more history that needed to be shared and that it was enough to make a book. In addition to Annie’s story, I uncovered an active community of Black voters in Southport as far back as 1867. These men continued to be influential in Brunswick County politics up until 1901, when all Black voters in North Carolina were disenfranchised. Annie’s story, which happened 20 years later, carried on the struggle for Black voting rights. Carolyn: I’ve been working on it for sev-

and feel what she was like. Then I learned more about her and the history of what was going on around her at that time and the people who were in her orbit.

Any future plans for sharing her story? Could it somehow become a part of the history curriculum at least locally?

Researching Annie made me think about my mother, my grandmother, and my great-grandmother as a formerly enslaved woman, not having the right to vote or to have control over the laws that affected their lives. That was very heavy for me. History teaches us.

Liz: I would love to see Annie’s story told in local schools. I’m continuing to look for opportunities to share Annie’s story and the story of the struggle for Black voting rights in Brunswick County. I’m scheduled to give presentations of her story to several local non-profits and history groups in their upcoming meetings. The book includes a Readers’ Discussion Guide, and it lends itself well to book club discussions. If any groups or book clubs are interested in having me meet with them, I can be reached through the Southport Historical Society info@southporthistoricallsociety.org or 910-477-3461.

What would you like modern people, I was going to say women, but no, really everyone, to get out of Annie Clemmons’ story? Liz: Annie’s story underscores the point that everyone can work for social justice. Success doesn’t come from one big dramatic moment. Instead, it’s a lot of small actions undertaken by a lot of nameless individuals contributing in their own small way. eral years ever since Liz first shared her research. What helped me was Liz’s passion for Annie Clemmons. That passion is what allows me to think about Annie as a person

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

Carolyn: To be passionate about voting rights and the importance of continuing to vote.

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Carolyn: This story is a national story. It’s not just a story that’s important to Southport. Annie is a treasure. Her story speaks to today. I hope to present her story at more venues and share her story with a wider audience. My goal is to portray Annie Clemmons at the Site of the Seneca Falls Women’s Rights Convention Site and

Community colleges and universities because no one knows about her, and they should.

When will the book, “Southport’s Secret Suffragist,” be available and how can people get a copy? The book will be launching Feb. 9, the same night as Carolyn’s premiere performance. We will have it available for purchase before and after her show. Following that, it will be available in person at Ft. Johnston Southport Museum and Visitors’ Center and online at www.southporthistoricalsociety.org.

How can people get tickets for Carolyn Evans’ performance? Ms. Carolyn Evans’ performance of Annie Clemmons, Southport’s Secret Suffragist is free but due to limited space, reservations are required. Free tickets can be reserved at www.southporthistoricalsociety.org. When the tickets are all gone, people can register for a waitlist. If there’s enough interest, we can bring Carolyn back for additional performances.

The performance will be followed by a Q&A session with Carolyn and Liz. Books will be available for purchase and for signing. Proceeds from the book sales support the Southport Historical Society.

Brunswick County Black History Symposium

Southport Community Building Friday, Feb. 9 6 pm. Doors open at 5:30 pm. Free. Reservations required. “Southport’s Secret Suffragist” — $20 cash or check. www.southporthistoricalsociety.org for more information Liz Fuller, PhD, is President of the Southport Historical Society Carolyn Evans is a Histo-Dramatist/ Member of The North Carolina Association of Black Storytellers, holds a BFA in Drama from Syracuse University, trained under the Negro Ensemble Company in NYC, Sankofa Drum and Dance Ensemble, Kofi Donkor Artistic Director in NY

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Calling All Artists

Community

Upcoming Franklin Square Gallery Events

All are invited to attend the reception

CONTRIBUTED

2024 Spring Art Show

3D/2D Spring Art Workshops

This February, the Associated Artists of Southport (“AAS”) will host two art workshops at Franklin Square Gallery and invite interested artists to register and attend.

o celebrate the Spring 2024 reopening of Southport’s Franklin Square Gallery, the Associated Artists of Southport invite artists throughout the lower Cape Fear region to submit original artwork for exhibit in the Gallery’s Spring Show, scheduled for Feb. 19 through March 16. The Show’s theme, appropriately, is “Springtime,” and will feature representational and abstract work in a variety of media relating to the season, including but not limited to, floral, beach, landscape, wildlife and other depictions of the natural world. The event will showcase 2D work in a wide variety of media and styles, and 3D work in the form of pottery and ceramic sculpture. All work featured in the Spring Show is offered for sale to the public. Exhibiting artists will compete for more

home. Additional information regarding the Show may be obtained on the Gallery’s website or by contacting Show chairperson Kim Kirk at creativespirit@ec.rr.com or 910264-8580.

than $1,200 in prizes awarded by this year’s judges, Kirah Van Sickle (2D), an award-winning illustrator and studio artist based in the Wilmington area and Italy, and Steve Kelly (3D), an accomplished ceramicist and widely exhibited master potter who teaches design at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington.

To enter work, artists must register by Feb. 9. Application forms and entry fees ($36 for members of the Associated Artists of Southport; $46 for non-members) must be submitted online using the link provided at https://www.franklinsquaregallery.com/

On Feb. 17-18, noted Wilmington potter and sculptor Steve Kelly will offer a two-day, hands-on pottery workshop at the Gallery. A professor at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, his work is featured in numerous U.S. galleries and publications, including “Surface Decoration for Ceramics,” a book on contemporary ceramic surface techniques. In this workshop, Kelly will guide participants through his unique surface treatment processes, which include throwing and altering clay forms, stamping, drawing, water etching and under-glazing. Intermediate/advanced pottery experience is required for this workshop, and class size

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BRUNSWICK COUNTY

BLACK HISTORY SYMPOSIUM FEBRUARY

9-11

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SOUTHPORT COMMUNITY BUILDING 223 E Bay St, Southport, NC 28461 PROCEEDS FROM THIS EVENT WILL GO TO: Woodard's Adult Day Health Center

February 10, 2024

12:00 pm: Mr. John Mosely: “The African 6:00 pm: American Experience in the Cape Fear 1861Storyteller Ms. Carolyn Evans will portray Miss 1865” Annie Clemmons, a Black 1:30 pm: Dr. Liz Fuller: “The Struggle for Black Southport woman who Voting Rights in Brunswick County” fought for voting rights in Brunswick County during 3:00 pm: Mr. Donnie Joyner: “Battery B the women's suffrage 2nd Regiment U.S. Colored Light Artillery movement in 1920. Inc. Civil War Re-Enactors” Also that evening, we will 4:30 pm: West Brunswick High School present local author, Liz Battery B 2nd Regiment U.S. Colored Light Artillery Fullers ne book, Drama Club will present an excerpt from (United States Colored Troops “Southport’s Secret their 16th Annual Black History Month Re-enactors) Suffragist.” Production. Carolyn Evans, Story Teller

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

February 11, 2024 3:00pm: “Gospel Fest” hosted by Ms. Gwen Wearren John Moseley

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West Brunswick High School Drama Club

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is limited to the first 15 participants. Information regarding registration, fees and supplies is available on the Gallery’s website at https://www.franklinsquaregallery.com, or by contacting Cheryl Rogers at auntducks@ gmail.com. Next, on Feb. 19-20, Wilmington artist Kirah Van Sickle will offer a two-day painting workshop entitled “The Abridged Landscape: An Intro to Abstraction.” An award-winning illustrator, graphic designer, studio artist and educator, Van Sickle will provide participants with a foundation of abstract color and composition fundamentals in various abstract landscape styles. Through the lens of modern masters, personal and local imagery, demonstrations and handouts, she will share a variety of techniques and templates to build painting confidence. Beginners with basic painting experience and advanced painters are welcome to register. Demonstrations will utilize acrylic and watercolor, but individual participants are invited to use any medium they prefer. Information regarding registration, fees and supplies is available on the Gallery website at https://www.franklinsquare-

gallery.com, or by contacting Nancy Schulte at nancyschulte@me.com. Franklin Square Gallery is located at 130 E. West St. in Southport’s historic downtown area. The Gallery features original art and pottery on display and for sale, and is open to the public, free of charge, from 10 am to 5 pm, Monday through Saturday. Its programs are supported by the Brunswick Arts Council and North Carolina Arts Council.

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Community

Preserving Memories

Talking Photography With Ken’s Lens Designs

STORY BY LOUISE SHEFFIELD-BACCARNY, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

oint, click and capture. Sounds easy enough, right? Well, at least that’s what I tell my 7-year-old as she uses her Fujifilm INSTAX kid’s camera her MeMe gave her last Christmas. I encouraged her to snap at whatever caught her little eye and five packs of film later, I noticed the trend of selfies, peace signs and our dog are mostly what caught her eye! After sitting down with Kenneth Teore, of Ken’s Lens Designs- Photography, Graphic Design and Photo Restoration, I learned that it was a dragonfly that first caught his eye and opened the world of photography for him. Ken, a New Jersey native, had a bit of a challenging childhood as he learned to navigate living with autism and dyslexia. As you can imagine, school wasn’t always easy but a special high school teacher named Ellen Spicer gave him a nudge into photography after he shot his first picture of the notable dragonfly with his first camera, an old Canon,

which he still has to this day. Growing up, he loved to watch the History and Discovery Channels and he quickly realized that photography was a way for him to combine his love of history and research. He could also work at his own pace despite his disabilities. Soon after this finding, his mother gave him a Sony camera that she thought

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

would be easier for him to use with his dyslexia. Ken worked on various projects including one with Autism Speaks, several internships, and he received a Certification in Graphic Design. The Teore family moved from NJ to Shallotte in 2016, and Ken began taking classes at Brunswick Community College to further his education and expand his skill level. With the photography up and running he began to dabble in photo restoration. Initially using old family photos, Ken was able to restore pictures that had been damaged, faded, folded or torn and make them seem timeless.

He was excited that these “new” images of “old” photos would be passed down for generations to come and that the antiquity that they hold would be viewed as historically accurate as possible. One special picture was from the 18th century. For this process, Ken primarily uses Photoshop, however, in some situations, he also uses AI (Artificial Intelligence) to achieve correct color and facial recognition. The first step is to scan the photo and make a digital file. He compares his work of restoring photos to the famous magicians Penn and Tell-

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er on the basis that photo restoration is an illusion because the original photo is still intact. He then works his magic by operating digitally. “I believe in taking the extra time to make sure the small details in the photos such as jewelry and clothing are precise for the era in which they were taken,” he said. It is also helpful if the people in the pictures have living relatives that he can contact so they can collaborate with him on skin tone, eye color, and hair color. He admits having a love/hate relationship with coloration but strives to transform the photos back to life. An enormous amount of research goes into historical depiction and this process could be lengthy. Ken describes the low range of work and research as around an hour or less, the

mid-range as three to five hours, and the high end as 10 plus hours, although some of his work has taken up to 20 hours! Once the photo is restored he will give a thumb drive or send a file share link to his clients for them to print the final product. After many completed projects he found that most damage is done from water, yellowing or cracking, but photos can also be damaged during the print process. The most fascinating person he has ever met was a former Kodak engineer who worked in the chemical process. Ken recommends storing photos away from direct sunlight and in an area of low humidity as humidity is no friend to paper. If you have any old photos in an album with the clear plastic overlay, his advice is to cut the pictures out of the album to reduce the risk of damaging them further by trying to peel the plastic back off the pictures. It is very rare that he cannot restore a photo. In fact, the most damaged photo he has worked on he was still able to restore to at least 80 percent of its original form. “Using Photoshop is like being a magician, but even magic has its limits,” he acknowledged. Ken describes himself as an older millennial who learned photography with a point and shoot, not a smartphone. With that being said, he strives to help others learn beginner photography skills with his YouTube tutorials, including one titled “Why

and relaxing activity for him. A passion for photography can be fashioned at any age whether you are 7 or 70 and he advises to “Always keep a camera with you — you never know when something interesting is about to happen!” are your photos blurry?”. When not working from home or out in the field with his camera, Ken, along with his family, can be found at several markets and festivals around Ocean Isle and Sunset Beach talking about his craft, displaying adored prints and selling merchandise like coffee mugs and puzzles they have created using local scenery. Ken loves working with people and says that photography is a very Zen

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

Contact Ken’s Lens Designs www.kenslensdesigns.com KennethTeore@kenslensdesigns. com

732-439-1877

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A Legacy Of Love

Community

The Barn At Rock Creek Events Center

STORY BY JANET MORGAN-SWEGLE PHOTOS BY TONY SWEGLE

enowned British poet Robert Browning said, in part, “Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be, the last of life, for which the first was made.” It seems that most of us are familiar with the first line of that poem, but it’s the second line that illustrates the lasting love that couples dream of on their wedding day. What could be better than exploring and building your entire life with the person with whom you who shared the vows of marriage? In this, the “love” month of February, it’s estimated that approximately 220,000 people across the country will get engaged on Valentine’s Day (second only to Christmas) — and that means 220,000 weddings. The wedding industry in the United States has a market size of $70.3 billion (reported in 2021) and experts suggest that the average bride will spend $30,000 on her wedding. According to “The Knot, Real Weddings Study,” in 2022, the aver-

age bride spent $1,900 on her dress alone. After the date and the dress and the guest list, the biggest decision a couple needs to make is where to have the wedding reception, or wedding and reception. Couples in this area are particularly lucky to have access to “The Barn at Rock Creek,” located at 5900 Rock Creek Road NE in Leland. Lesley Padgett, co-owner of The Barn said “In the beginning of 2012, my family

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

decided to no longer farm the land and we were planning to host our first family wedding. After seeing the cost of bringing all of the rentals in, it grew into a much bigger project and that is when the idea of making The Barn a wedding venue came about.” But The Barn is more than just a nice

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place to have a wedding/wedding reception. “The Barn is 13 acres right smack dab in the middle of the country. “There is no noise, and no neighbors,” Lesley explained. The wooded setting, mostly of natural Cypress trees, offers a rustic but elegant feel for weddings or any type of celebration.

Commu nity

The Barn facility and the open-air Pavilion, which has a large stone fireplace, overlook a pond, which is great for pictures, and they have 2,400 square feet of indoor space with 13 crystal chandeliers. “We are a family-owned business, a very tight-knit one at that,” Lesley said. “We truly believe that each couple and their families become a part of our family throughout the planning process. I grew up surrounded by Southern hospitality and I want every couple to feel at home when they choose The Barn as the place where they want to start their lives together.” Being constantly around happy couples has to be a rewarding job, but hosting multiple weddings every year has to be taxing. Lesley and her team don’t see it that way. “I enjoy what I do,” she said. “For the first seven years of being in business, I still had a full-time career as well as running The Barn. I had to make the difficult decision between a career that I absolutely loved and starting a new career that I was beginning to love just as much. I made that decision solely based on the location and atmosphere of the Barn. The Barn is peaceful, and I get to meet the most incredible people that have since become my family.” L e s l e y

describes herself as a “Winnabowian” born and raised in Brunswick County. “I was never one to want to go to college and move away,” she said. “I love the legacy that my family started here many years ago. Both of my parents met in Brunswick County, in high school. It is a special place to grow up and I am so fortunate to be able to call this area home.” Like many businesses, The Barn wasn’t supposed to become the successful venture that it has become. Laughing, Lesley said, “The Barn was never the plan. The original thought was after the family wedding, we would use it for our family events. But that’s not how it played out. I was getting phone calls every week from people asking about renting our property for their parties and celebrations. I could not even keep up with the demand. We quickly realized that The Barn was a new family business opportunity right in front of us — literally, in our own backyard. Since then, we have hosted hundreds of weddings and special events. The Barn is the best family business that we did not know we had or needed.” It takes a lot of support to build and maintain a successful business. “For me,

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it is about family and community. The support our community has shown us has been unwavering. It really is a beautiful thing,” Lesley said. “This property is so much more to me than just a piece of land that was purchased for a business venture. This land, this barn and this business, have history. I think it is important to remember where you came from. My grandfather, Robert “Bob” Ward, was the original owner of this land. He started our legacy in this county, and when he is mentioned, people know exactly who you are talking about. My family and I strive to continue his legacy.” The Barn also provides career opportunities in the Leland area. “We like to host around 50 weddings a year, but we have

done as many as 75. There are several of us that are full-time employees. We run the day-to-day operations and respond to inquiries via email and phone,” Lesley said. “My family is also very involved in helping us maintain The Barn. During our busy season, we hire seasonal employees that help ensure all of our events run smoothly. On an average wedding day, there can be anywhere from four to eight employees who help out with the event and the venue. It takes a village.” Anyone who has planned a wedding knows that there are many moving parts that have to be arranged to ensure a beautiful and successful event. “Communication

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

is key,” Lesley said. “We spend most of our time during the week leading up to a wedding in the office going over every little detail. This includes meetings with our staff, vendors, and those involved in each event.” Any wedding day is a special day, but a Valentine’s Day wedding is even more so. Lesley told us, “In the past, Valentine’s Day weddings have been small and intimate; and they are some of our favorite styles of wedding. They are just so personable. This year, we do not have a Valentine’s Day wedding booked, but we are hosting an open house on Saturday, Feb. 17 for all of the couples that just got engaged over the holidays.”

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If you are planning a special event or a wedding, give serious consideration to hosting it at The Barn. Visit The Barn’s website, http://www.thebarnatrockcreek. com/calendarofevents/open-house-atthe-barn. Or, give Lesley and her team a call at 910-253-4012. Remember, when you find that special person to grow old with, one of the most romantic memories you will both share is your wedding day. Make it a day to remember at The Barn.

view our inventory here 4019 Long Beach Rd. Southport, NC 28461 (910)457-4497

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Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

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Community

Mardi Gras Party

Books, Brews and Beads At Makai Brewing CONTRIBUTED

ut together your finest New Orleans outfit and get ready to laissez le bon temps rouler. Brunswick County Literacy Council’s annual Books, Brews & Beads Mardi Gras celebration — the group’s most fun fundraising event of the year — will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 6, at Makai Brewing Company in Ocean Isle Beach.

From colorful beads, festive decorations, and scrumptious king cake cupcakes, BCLC is preparing to bring a little of the Big Easy to Brunswick County once again with this New Orleans inspired event. Guests will be treated to an evening of exceptional fun with live entertainment from DJ Jason Jackson, delicious food from Bad Eatz, a cash bar, raffles, door prizes, and exciting games. Upon arrival, guests will be treated with a goody bag stuffed with beads and other favors. As

they make their way in, guests can also take time to look over the Bourbon Street raffle baskets; raffle tickets will be available for purchase. Melissa Warren, BCLC’s executive director, said excitement is building for this year’s event. It’s the third year that BCLC has partnered with Makai Brewing Company to host the Mardi Gras celebration and help increase awareness of the organization’s work to improve illiteracy in the county. “The community support we’ve received from this event over the last two years has

allowed us to continue to provide learning materials, internet access, and other tutoring essentials, free of charge, for our adult students,” said Warren. “We have some exciting new things to look forward to for this year’s event, and we have been fortunate to sell out for the previous two years, so for anyone wanting to attend, get your tickets fast!”

It’s Time Again, Treat Your Beloved

The event kicks off at 5 pm at 5850 Ocean Hwy. W. in Ocean Isle Beach. Individual tickets are $40. Online registration for the event ends on Feb. 1, but tickets will be available at the door for $45. Visit the “Events” tab at bcliteracy.org or call call (910) 754-7323 for more information about becming a sponsor, making a donation, or purchasing tickets.

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Community

Chefs of Brunswick Sample Food From Local Restaurants

STORY BY MCKENZIE BARWICK, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

fter a long four-year hiatus, the second annual Chefs of Brunswick event will have area restauranteurs firing up the kitchens again on Feb. 24, offering tasty dishes and beverages from 5-9 pm. The event is organized by the Southport Rotary Club as a fundraiser for local charities, and was first held in 2019 right before the pandemic changed the world. Former club president Shawn Braswell said there are a few changes in store for everyone this year. Approximately 20 local food vendors participate, as well as six beverage vendors, including beer, wine, and coffee. Tickets cost $25 and in exchange you get five blue tokens that can be used at any of the vendors to get a sample of the delicious food or drinks they bring. Everyone also has the option to purchase more blue tokens if they want to. The last event sold 1,000 tickets and

was held in a the much smaller Stone Chimney events center. This time the Club is selling 800 tickets, and it will be held at the St. James Community Center, offering a lot more room for vendors and attendees alike. “In 2019, all 1,000 ticket holders showed up and it was awesome to see the community get together in such a way. The restaurants ended up running

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

out of food, not expecting the amazing outcome that we had,” Shawn said. The Stone Chimney event space hosted the last Chefs of Brunswick which according to Shawn was a great place, but given the popularity of the event, it was beneficial to change locations. The St. James Community Center has a large room that will hold all the vendors and another three rooms in the center that will be mixed with sit down tables as well as high top tables giving everyone a chance to either sit or stand around

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and mingle. Kai Joe’s, Oliver’s, Moore Street Oyster Bar, and Petrea Imports are just a few of the amazing participants this year. I was lucky enough to be able to chat with Austin Alfonso (also known as Big Chef Tuna) and Alexis Oxendine, owners of Kai-Joe’s about what they plan to do this year and what they loved about the previous event. “We are excited to be able to partake in Chefs of Brunswick this year after being fortunate enough to attend and participate in the first one,” Alexis said. “In the past, the Chefs of Brunswick was a great way for chefs and restaurants to connect with the community and show their creative side with a dish of their choice. It was an event that was fun and enjoyable for all.” Austin and Alexis will be preparing an

Asian inspired shrimp and rice bowl as well as a spin on a tuna tostada. “The flavors and ingredients will allow the guests to experience Pacific Rim Cuisine and allow the chefs to showcase their passion for food,” Austin said. Kai-Joe’s was created in 2016 and has prospered as a takeout stand on Oak Island with menu items such as tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and nachos. Austin and Alexis spent time living in Hawaii on the island of Oahu. During that experience, Chef Austin picked up various culinary skills and flavor profiles while working at a very well-known restaurant located on the North Shore. Their goal as restaurant owners and locals to North Carolina has always been to bring these flavors to the east coast while still embracing their southern roots and love for southern cuisine. “The Chefs of Brunswick is such a great opportunity for local chefs to showcase their love for food while engaging with people in the community and with each other,” Austin and Alexis said. “We are so thrilled to be a part of this year’s event and to express our passion for food to the community. We hope this event continues in years to come as it is a great way to acknowledge local chefs and the food scene in Brunswick County.” Chefs of Brunswick will serve up good food and give restaurants exCelebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

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Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

COMMUNITY

posure to potential new customers, but is also serves as a fundraiser for community charities, and some of those charities will have displays at the event. Chefs of Brunswick is a drop-in event from 5-9 pm. There will be limited parking at the community center. Additional parking will be available at Novant’s Pine Forest facility, and Cape Fear Jetport is supplying two vans and drivers to shuttle people from the other parking lot if needed. Tickets can be purchased directly from the Southport Rotary Club website at www.southportrotary.com. You don’t want to miss out on this amazing night!

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Calling All Birders

Community

Help With The 2024 National Bird Count

submit them to the eBird website at ebird.org, or download the bird app. There may also be in person or virtual events, though details on any such programs were not yet available at press time.

STORY BY LISA STITES, PHOTO BY JEFFREY STITES

he 2024 Bird Count is Feb. 16-19, and volunteers are needed to help. Individuals and groups can participate, and it is as easy as finding a spot to watch birds, making a list of what you see and providing the info you collect online.

There are also additional resources available for educators who want to get their students involved.

Find a spot where birds are likely to be, or even just watch a bird feeder in your yard.

According to www.birdcount.org, people from 202 countries participated in the 2023 count and recorded 2/3 of the world’s known species. Visit https://scienceacrossnc.org/events/ birds/ for more information.

Watch birds for at least 15 minutes. Make a checklist recording the total number of every bird that you see or hear that you know how to identify. The Merlin phone app can help you identify birds by song or with pictures. Fill out your checklists and

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Dosher Hospital News Dosher Memorial Hospital Speech Therapist Jaime Staron recently completed an LSVT LOUD certification, which is an effective speech treatment for people with Parkinson’s Disease and other neurological conditions. Scientifically studied for over 25 years, LOUD trains patients to use their voice in a more normal loudness level by recalibrating their perceptions of vocal loudness in daily communication. The treatment is designed to enable a

stronger voice to become a lifelong habit. Jamie, who has been a member of the Dosher Therapy Team for eight years, possesses a Master’s of Art in Communication Disorders from Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. She looks forward to helping her patients regain quality of life through the treatment and education that LOUD training offers. “We congratulate Ms. Staron in taking this important step in continuing her healthcare education, and we appreciate the ways that this will contribute to the successful outcomes of our patients,” said Lynda Stanley, President and CEO of Dosher Memorial Hospital.

Lindsay Williamson, a Care Coordinator with the Dosher Clinics Team, is the most recent recipient of the hospital’s Employees Exceeding Excellence, “Triple E” Award. Lindsay was recognized for not only being great at her job, but as having an outstanding disposition. One nomination stated, “She sets the bar of how everyone should interact with both patients and other staff members and exemplifies the extraordinary care that we have promised our community.” Lindsay, who is a Charlotte native, relocated to Southport 11 years ago with her family and has been with Dosher for nearly four years. She enjoys going to the beach and watching all of the coastal wildlife, playing with her two dogs, and taking trips to Carolina Beach State Park in her camper. Dosher Triple E’s are nominated by their peers on a quarterly basis.

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www.SouthportMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Southport Magazine 39

The View From Here

COMMUNITY

Recollections of the Old Yacht Basin of Old STORY BY MIKE ROYAL

Editor’s Note: Each month, we’re featuring a story by Mike Royal, who grew up in Southport and is a talented storyteller. Our hope is that these stories will trigger fond memories with other long-time residents and give newer community members a glimpse into our local history. We’ll try, when we can, to tie the stories into the month’s theme, like sharing this month’s story of the love for a remembered vision of Southport’s Old Yacht Basin, entitled The View From Here.

he kid stands in that yard and on that hill, a bluff overlooking the Old Yacht Basin. You know the place. The solid brick wall with its narrow concrete steps give it away. The kid has trespassed in this space…thinking its house abandoned and its yard were HIS overlook. But in those days he had many trespasses through many yards and trails, and not once had a Southport resident ever complained. It was a rite of passage of sorts, cutting through backyards and over fences thinking he owned the whole town. In this time, the mid-60s, the town was his to roam…and roam he and his friends did. From this bluff, the kid can see across the harbor, the waters of the Intracoastal Waterway and clear out across the Cape Fear River. Caswell lighthouse is to the

right and Old Baldy is to the left. Their size, diminished by distance, causes them to appear more like toys than the tall beacons of disaster that forewarned sailors from a time when the eye alone

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

Photos Above and Left Courtesy of The Clam Digger Club Archives

navigated such waters as Cape Fear. As the kid scans the basin in front of him, his view cast upon the wooden structures in their various shapes and forms — wooden ramps to wooden bulkheads, wooden docks on wooden pilings with wooden ladders to wooden boats. Even the shrimp boxes were made of wood and stacked neatly next to wooden shrimp houses. Wood was king in those days and vital to the fisheries. No matter where your eye landed, not one fiber of fiberglass could be seen or found. Fiberglass had made its appearance in the world, just not in this little corner of the world.

www.SouthportMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Southport Magazine 40

Wooden hulls were the norm, shaped and formed by the hands of master craftsmen, generations of boatbuilders. Nothing molded and nothing formed unless by chisel, plane or saw. These hulls were mainstream to the everyday fisherman and the small fishing enterprises that gave families a means to make their living. A few got rich, a few did okay, but most managed to survive. These massive boats with their brightly painted white hulls and black masts got the job done. A doublerigged shrimper was designed to haul large nets off both the port side and the starboard side. Very few of these

COMMUNITY It captures for review the cherished moments of this linear life we wish to relive. Of all the gifts our creator gave us, memory can be argued as the sweetest, especially in terms of those parts of life that touch our hearts. We carry these moments gladly and relish in their review. Like a movie playing in our heads, old men and old women play those movies often, over and over never tiring of its script, its plot, and certainly not its cast of characters. The cast of characters continue to maintain top billing; all co-stars with the kid in his “cinema-of-the-mind.”

working boats were emblazoned in any other color. No, white was affordable and after all, it was not style they sought, just the protection paint could give the vessels which fed their loved ones and kept the wolf at bay. Mostly shrimp boats and charter boats filled every boat slip. Fleets even, all lined up together with their black masts pointing skyward, nets hanging aloft with colorful chaffing gear and crisscrossing cables and lines. It was like gazing into a forest of tall dark trees and vines. The boats were moored and sitting ready for the next day’s catch. Some docked stern in while others docked bow first. Captains fondly referred to these old wooden boats as the “mistresses and working girls of Southport.” As the kid in me enjoys this mid-60s view, even he did not know that he was witnessing the last days of an era — a time when men went to sea in search of its bounty. A sea that provided for so many for so long was waning. The

The Old Yacht Basin circa 2023

struggles to maintain this way of life had started even then. A song based on scripture says it best: “To everything there is a season, turn turn turn, and a

time to every purpose under Heaven, a time to sow, a time to reap.”

As the kid sits in the grass of the old bluff and looks out over his world, he can still see all those visual points that ground him to a time and to a place that will forever be his refuge… when he chooses to remember. And, he remembers it all WITH VIGOR! His friends, mostly, those who shared the wonder with him. In Remembrance… Michael Royal

That’s the thing about human memory.

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www.SouthportMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Southport Magazine 43

Community

Help For New Moms Samara’s Village Pop-Up Shop Event STORY CONTRIBUTED

amara’s Village will host a “Pop-Up Shop” Tuesday, Feb. 13, from 1 to 4 pm at the Port City Community Church, 187 Old Fayetteville Road in Leland. Families with children younger than 3 and all expectant mothers are welcome to participate. All items are free and include diapers in all sizes, toys, books, clothing, and more! These Pop-Up Shops not only provide an opportunity to help young families in Brunswick County, but they also provide a chance for our volunteers to share the vision and mission of Samaras Village with the hope that the

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

information will be passed on to mothers aged 21 and younger who may need support. In addition to representatives from Samara’s Village, community partners from organizations p r o v i d i n g information about education, career development, child development, medical and mental health, and family services will be available.

www.SouthportMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Southport Magazine 44

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2024 Rice Festival

Community ilies and the people of West Africa’s Rice Coast with help from African Ancestry’s president/CEO Dr. Gina Paige. Free and open to the public. 6-8 pm at the Navassa Community Center, 338 Main St., Navassa.

Celebrate History With Four Days of Events STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES

id you know that long before tourism took hold in Brunswick County, our economy centered around rice cultivation? The 2024 North Carolina Rice Festival is a great chance to learn all about the history of rice agriculture and to celebrate the culture of the people that made it all happen with lectures, a gala dinner, public movie screenings and a big festival at the Brunswick Town-Fort Andersen State Historic Site. According to the Rice Festival website, “The Carolinas - North and South - were the hub of rice production in the 1700s and 1800s, and rice was the largest export to other countries, such as England. The crop was called “Carolina Gold” because of the wealth that it produced for the colonies, which grew the Southern Plantation economy. This “gold” originated in West Africa, as did the slaves who were brought to the Carolina region and beyond because many had the skill and knowledge to plant, grow, harvest and process rice. The Gullah Geechee are descendants of these West Africans, and Brunswick County is the home of many descendants of rice planters as well.”

Friday, March 1: Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Gala Dinner and VIP Reception

Join the fun at these four events, in four locations over four days:

Wednesday, Feb. 28: Introducing the North Carolina Rice Festival—An Evening of Films and Discussion For those few and new who haven’t heard about or attended previous years’ Rice Festival events, or who are unfamiliar with the significant role rice—or “Carolina Gold”— played in Brunswick County’s agricultural and cultural history, two outstanding video-documentaries locally produced by the Festival organizers will be screened. Free and open to the public. 6-7 pm at WWAYTV3, 1224 Magnolia Village Way in Leland.

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

Thursday, Feb. 29: Ancestry Reveal Event Join local residents as they explore the ancestral connections between their fam-

www.SouthportMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Southport Magazine 48

Featuring “edu-tainment” by renowned Gullah Geechee performing artists and a mouth-watering, Low country-inspired menu from award-winning Chef and Festival Culinarian Keith Rhodes of Wilmington’s Catch Restaurant, along with a Silent Auction. This is the Rice Festival’s premier fundraising event; tickets are $120/person and are available online at northcarolinaricefestival. org or by mail to: NCRFI, POB 674, Leland NC 28451 5-9 pm at The Brunswick Center of Supply, 101 Stone Chimney Road SE

Community Saturday, March 2: North Carolina Rice Festival Visit Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site on Saturday, March 2 for the North Carolina Rice Festival! Activities will be located indoors and outdoors. Activities will include: history/cultural presentations, tours, demonstrations, live entertainment, family fun, children’s stage, Gullah Geechee food vendors, and arts/ crafts.

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Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Southport Magazine 49

Chamber of Commerce News

Consumer Showcase Connecting Businesses and the Community

ur local Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce is near and dear to our hearts. Karen and the members made us welcome when we were brand new business owners, and their help and support has been invaluable in our growth over the past four years. It’s an incredibly active Chamber and we thought it deserved a regular section in Southport Magazine, so welcome to Chamber News.

his month you’ll read about a brand new program, Pro Pics, and one of the Chamber’s staple events, the Coastal Consumer Showcase. We are huge fans of the Showcase, and hope to see you there, as a presenting business or as one of the hundreds of visitors coming to check out what our business community has to offer. While you’re there, be sure to stop by and say “hi!”

Coastal Consumer Showcase Highlights the Best Local Products and Services The St. James Community Center will host the Coastal Consumer Showcase on Thursday, Feb. 8 from 4-7 p.m. Admission is free to the public. This popular event provides Brunswick County residents a one-stop-shop to see products and services that local businesses in the community offer. More than 50 businesses from retail, service, professional, healthcare and home improvements will be on hand to

answer questions and provide free samples, giveaways and demonstrations. One ticket to the Pick a Prize Auction will be given to those who attend and register, with additional tickets available for sale. “Each year we organize this event to provide our area residents a convenient way to learn about the wide-ranging products and services available in our community,” said Karen Sphar, executive vice president of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce. “It’s an excellent opportunity for businesses to reach new customers as well.” The Coastal Consumer Showcase is an event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Dosher Memorial Hospital, The State Port Pilot, Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center, Fulford Heating & Cooling, Southport Magazine, Grey

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

Outdoor, LLC, and SPT-OKI Magazine. For more information about the Coastal Consumer Showcase please contact the Southport-Oak Island

Area Chamber of Commerce at 910-457-6964, email at Info@southport-oakisland.com, or visit the website at www.coastalconsumershow. com.

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www.SouthportMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Southport Magazine 50

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Southport Magazine 51

ART BEAT

Caroline Brizzolara Celebrating The Magic Of Light STORY BY CARLA EDSTROM

he magical collaboration between living by the coast and being an artist is genuine. We are all drawn here to the beauty of nature, and many of us are caught in the net and move here permanently. There is so much in nature on the coast that quickly returns us to a child-like place of awe and wonder. We are easily influenced by the ocean’s ever-changing beauty and immense forceful presence. “The biggest influence on my work right now is the light here near the coast,” said Caroline Brizzolara, a local fine artist. “The sky seems huge here. The way the light hits the water, the sand, the marsh, the woods, the horizon — even the way it operates in still life and figurative studies — it’s all visually compelling to me,” said Brizzolara.

As a lifelong artist originally from Manhattan and the New Jersey suburbs, she always resided close to the city until she moved to St. James six years ago. She and her husband relocated here for a better quality of life after retiring, and they found it. Brizzolara spends a lot of her time these days being very observant and attuned to nature and what is happening all around her. Her keen observations are often the subject of her fine art paintings. “I’ve been painting and drawing since I was a child. I re-

member seeing Disney’s ‘Fantasia’ in a movie theater when I was about 5 years old and drawing colorful little fairy creatures for weeks afterward. Drawing was something that always came naturally to me, but in college and graduate school, I really learned how to see. Close observation of the natural world still informs what I paint, even when the final image veers toward abstraction,” she said. “Paying visual attention and seeing the world around me has always been how I get moved to paint. I always try to have my camera with me because I often spy ideas for painting while I’m outside, walking, riding in a car, doing yard work, and being out and about. While picking up pine cones after the last storm, for instance, I discovered that pine cones start out as tiny, perfect, bluish little conical things clustered in the crook of a pine branch. They may pop up in an image soon,” she said. Her art took the back seat to her busy career for many years, and she is thrilled to be able to make art a priority once again in retirement. “I took art classes all through grammar and high school. In college, I majored in art and minored in art history, eventually earning a mas-

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

ter’s degree in painting, with forays into photography, lithography, and pottery. I then taught studio art and advanced placement art history at the high school level in New Jersey for almost two decades,” she said. “Teaching was rewarding but draining, and it wasn’t financially sound for me. By the time I reached my 30s, I knew I needed a career change and found it in the legal profession. For the next 20-plus years, I studied and practiced law at a midsized law firm in New Jersey. I loved it. But working as an attorney permits little time for avocation, and my love for

art-making fell by the wayside.” Working primarily with pastels and acrylics these days, Brizzolara has a straightforward method and process in her painting approach. “If I’m working from life, I don’t do much preliminary drawing. I just put color down because I’ve learned to trust myself that way. But if I’m painting abstractly, it’s a different way of working and a challenge. I force myself to start by letting accidents happen. Then I work to ‘make good’ on those accidents, developing color, line, composition, value, texture, and marks to create the image, bit by

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www.SouthportMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Southport Magazine 52

bit and layer by layer,” said Brizzolara. “My ‘favorite’ piece is the last thing I did that I’m happy with, so it changes all the time. Right now, I’m loving a little abstract painting that I did on a lark, which turned out to be an exciting little explosion of light and color. But I also love my marsh paintings, seascapes, and pet portraits.” Brizzolara is a member of The Associated Artists of Southport and shows her work at Franklin Square Gallery in downtown Southport. “I will be exhibiting in the Spring Show at Franklin Square Gallery and other shows there throughout the year,” she said. “I’ve

also shown work at the Leland Cultural Arts Center and the Wilmington Art Association’s North Carolina Azalea Festival art show and hope to do so again this year. A small group of local fine artists and I will also be hosting our second annual ArtFull Home show at the St. James Community Center, planned for later this year, where people can come meet me and my colleagues and view our work in a smaller, more personal setting.”

visit my website at www.carolinebrizzolarafineart.com, where my paintings and prints are always available, or take a look at my Instagram page, @carolinenc77. And I can always be reached by email at caroline@carolinebrizzolara. com.”

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History

March to Fayetteville

Brunswick Civil War Round Table Meeting STORY CONTRIBUTED

bout a hundred miles north of here lies Fayetteville, North Carolina. In early 1865, this town played a significant role near the close of the Civil War following Union Maj. Gen. William T. Sherman’s well-known March to the Sea. This rarely discussed phase of the war is the topic of popular returning guest speaker, Colonel Wade Sokolosky (Ret.), entitled, “A Great Race Between Two Rivers: Sherman’s March Toward Fayetteville.” This meeting will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 6 at Hatch Auditorium in Caswell Beach. Everyone is welcome.

Sherman’s March to the Sea was a significant component of the overall Union strategy to defeat the Confederacy by targeting its economic and logistical infrastructure. While Sherman’s march route was primarily Atlanta to Savannah between Nov. 15 and Dec. 21, 1864, he turned northward through the Carolinas in early 1865 as part of his broader campaign. His aim was to disrupt the Confederate supply lines, destroy military infrastructure, and break the morale of the Southern population. Fayetteville became a significant target in his campaign. In mid-March, 1865, his army of 60,000 marched between the Great Pee Dee

and Cape Fear rivers. During a four-day siege, they destroyed the Fayetteville Arsenal, foraged for food and supplies, burned private homes, and captured this key transportation hub with its strategic position on the Cape Fear River. The occupation of Fayetteville allowed the Union army to resupply and continue the march northward. Sherman’s forces continued their advance through North Carolina, participating in the Battle of Bentonville in late March, 1865, one of the last major engagements of the Civil War. Sherman’s March to the Sea and the subsequent Carolinas Campaign played a crucial role in hastening the end of the Civil War.

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Wade Sokolosky is a native of Beaufort, NC, a graduate of East Carolina University, and a 25-year veteran of the U.S. Army. He is a renowned Civil War historian, and one of North Carolina’s leading experts of the 1865 Carolinas Campaign. In addition, Wade is a prolific author and co-author, popular lecturer throughout the country speaking at roundtables, various societies and organizations, and at historical sites. He is also a tour guide with the Friends of Bentonville Battlefield, and is a member of the Brunswick Civil War Advisory Board. Registration for this meeting begins at 6:15 pm, and the program starts at 7 pm. The guest fee is $10, and can be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues. For more information about the Tuesday, February 6 meeting, contact president John Butler at Bruns-

wickcwrt@gmail.com, or call him at 404-229-9425. Or, visit the website at Brunswickcivilwarroundtable.com to learn more, become a member, renew your membership, and learn about member benefits. The group’s Facebook page also has additional information, news, and updates.

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724 N. Howe St. | Open 7 Days a Week www.SouthportMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Southport Magazine 54

Forgotten Battlefield

History

Cape Fear Civil War Round Table Meeting STORY CONTRIBUTED

he February meeting of the Cape Fear Civil War Round Table features a presentation by Prof. Chris Mackowski, one of the most engaging and energetic speakers on the national Civil War circuit. He will focus on the subject of one of his recent books, “The Battle of Jackson: May 14, 1863,” published in 2022. The presentation is scheduled for Thursday evening, Feb. 8, at St. John’s Episcopal Church in midtown Wilmington near Independence Mall. Doors open at 6:30 pm and the meeting begins at 7 p.m. Chris Mackowski, Ph.D., is the editor-in-chief and co-founder of Emerging Civil War and the series editor of the award-winning “Emerging Civil War”series, published by Savas Beatie. Chris is a writing professor in the Jandoli School of Communication at St. Bonaventure University in New York, where he also serves as associate dean for undergraduate programs. Chris is also historian-in-residence at Stevenson Ridge, a historic property on the Spotsylvania battlefield in central Virginia. He has worked as a historian for the National Park Service at Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park, where he gives tours at four major Civil War battlefields (Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness, and Spotsylvania), as well as at the building where Stonewall Jackson died. Chris has authored or co-authored more than 25 books, edited a half-dozen essay collections on the Civil War, and his articles have appeared in all the major Civil War magazines. Chris serves as vice president on the board of directors for the Central Virginia Battlefields Trust, he serves on the advisory board of the Civil War Roundtable Congress and the Brunswick (NC) Civil War Roundtable— the largest in the country. He is also a member of the Antietam Institute and the U. S. Grant Homestead Association. In 2023, he was honored with the Houston Civil War Round Table’s Frank Vandiver Award and also selected as the Copie Hill Fellow at the American Battlefield Trust.

Although Chris grew up in northwestern Pennsylvania and earned his Bachelors degree in Communications at the University of Pittsburgh, he describes himself as a “Stonewall Jackson fanboy,” and says that his fascination with the acclaimed Confederate general was his doorway into study of the Civil War. His book about the Battle of Jackson is dedicated to his eldest son, Jackson. He also notes “I am a huge believer in the idea that battlefields teach us something about our history that we can’t learn in any other way, so preserving those battlefields is vital.” Unfortunately, as Dr. Mackowski notes in his book, the National Park Service assessment of Jackson’s core battlefield areas overlays atop a busy state capital, with virtually no preserved space. Jackson, Mississippi, was the third Confederate state capital to fall to Union forces. When Maj. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant captured the important rail junction in May 1863, however, he did so almost as an afterthought. Drawing on dozens of primary sources, contextualized by the latest scholarship on Grant’s Vicksburg campaign, “The Battle of Jackson, Mississippi, May 14, 1863,” offers the most comprehensive account ever published on the fall of the Magnolia State’s capital during Grant’s inexorable march on Vicksburg. Grant had his eyes set not on Jackson but on Vicksburg, the “Gibraltar of the

Confederacy,” strategically located on the Mississippi River the invaluable prize that had eluded him for the better part of a year. Vicksburg is located about half way between Memphis, Tennessee, to the north, and New Orleans to the south. To get at Vicksburg, Grant finally marched south on the far side of the Mississippi River and crossed onto Mississippi soil to approach Vicksburg by land from the east. As he drove a wedge between Confederate General John Pemberton to the west, a chance encounter with Confederates at Raymond alerted him to a potential threat massing farther east in Jackson under the leadership of General Joseph E. Johnston, one of the Confederacy’s most respected field officers. Jackson is about 40 miles east of Vicksburg. Mississippi was also the home of Jefferson Davis, president of the Confederacy. In addition to being the state capital, Jackson was a vital transportation and communications hub and a major Confederate industrial center, and its fall removed vital logistical support for the Southern army holding Vicksburg. “It is hard to understand why most works on the Vicksburg campaign devote but few pages to the battle of Jackson” Terrence Winschel, retired historian of Vicksburg National Military Park, has written. Grant turned on a dime and made for Jackson to confront the growing danger. He had no way of knowing that Johnston was already planning to abandon the vital state capital. The Southern general’s behavior has long puzzled historians, and some believe his stint in Jackson was the nadir of his long career. The loss of Jackson isolated Vicksburg and helped set up a major confrontation between Federal and Confederate forces a few days later at Champion Hill in one of the most decisive battles of the war. The capital’s fall demonstrated that Grant could march into Jefferson Davis’ home

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

state and move about with impunity, and not even an acclaimed military leader like Joe Johnston could stop him. Most people interested in Civil War military history focus their attention on the titanic contest between the Union’s Army of the Potomac and the Confederacy’s Army of Northern Virginia in the Eastern Theater, but Grant’s Vicksburg campaign, especially the movement of his army from the crossing of the Mississippi River to the gates of Vicksburg is often viewed as the most “bold and masterly” in the Civil War, according to one of his opposing generals, Stephen Dill Lee. Historian Donald L. Miller in his volume on Vicksburg, wrote, “It was a Civil War blitzkrieg. In 18 days Grant’s army had marched nearly 200 miles; won five battles—four in six days; inflicted a loss of 5,787 killed, wounded, and missing; compelled the abandonment two Confederated strongholds…captured the capital of Mississippi,” and pushed the opposing army into a confined space where a siege would result in an inevitable victory for the Union. The meeting will be held in Elebash Hall at the rear of St. John’s Episcopal at 1219 Forest Hills Drive in Wilmington. The church parking lot and entrance to the meeting room is easily accessed via Park Avenue off of Independence Boulevard. For more information about membership in the Cape Fear Civil War Round Table, go to http://www.cfcwrt. org and pick “Join/Rejoin.” See you there!

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CALENDAR

February

and all expectant mothers are welcome to participate. All items are free and include diapers in all sizes, toys, books, clothing, and more!

We’ve included events here that were scheduled at press time, but please remember that all events, dates and times are subject to change.

In addition to representatives from Samara’s Village, community partners from organizations providing information about education, career development, child development, medical and mental health, and family services will be available.

FEB 3

Frog Watch USA Training

Day One of this free training includes fun and educational lessons in identifying local frog and toad species by their calls, understanding the conservation issues that amphibians face, and practicing the FrogWatch USA protocols for collecting data for citizen science. This training is for adults, though youth ages 10 and up are welcome with an adult who will also complete the training. No previous scientific background or knowledge of amphibians is required. The second session is Feb 10, and upon completion of both sessions, participants will be recognized as FrogWatch USA volunteers. The sessions are 10 am to 4 pm at Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site, 8884 Saint Philips Rd SE, Winnabow (off N.C. 133).

FEB 3

Sacred Heart Ladies Guild Flea Market Shop for new-to-you household goods, toys, jewelry, holiday decor, etc. at the church’s flea market, 8 am to noon in the social hall at Sacred Heart 5269 Dosher Cutoff SE, Southport.

FEB 4

Darling Daughters Dance — Southport Fathers, grandfathers, uncles and special friends are invited to escort their favorite girls of any age for an evening of fun; semi-formal attire is suggested. There will be red carpet photos, delicious food and desserts, DJ and dancing, face painting, silent auction, raffle, and prizes. The dance is 4-7 pm at the Southport Community Center. Tickets are $30, and proceeds benefit WAVES 4 K.I.D.S., a non-profit dedicated to supporting children and teens in foster care in Brunswick County. Visit https://www. waves4kids.org/darling-daughter-dance to purchase tickets.

FEB 6

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

“A Great Race between Two Rivers: Sherman’s March toward Fayetteville.”

FEB 17

Living History: The 159th Anniversary of the Fall of Fort Anderson Step back in time and experience artillery firings and infantry demonstrations throughout the day. This free event runs from 10 am to 4 pm at the site, 8884 St Phillips Rd SE, Winnabow (off N.C. 133).

FEB 20

Don’t miss the Coastal Consumer Showcase, Feb 8 at the St. James Community Center

As part of the Carolinas Campaign, Sherman’s army took control of Fayetteville, destroying the Fayetteville Arsenal, foraged for food and supplies, burned private homes and businesses which demoralized Confederate forces and the civilian population. This was a strategic effort toward ending the war. Guest speaker: Colonel Wade Sokolowsky (Ret.) is a 25-year U.S. army veteran, author, frequent lecturer, and one of North Carolina’s leading experts of the 1865 Carolinas Campaign. The group meets at Hatch Auditorium at Fort Caswell; doors open at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm. Anyone can attend; the cost is $10 but can be applied to $25 annual membership dues.

FEB 6

Books, Brews & Beads - A Mardi Gras Celebration This fundraiser for the Brunswick Literacy Council features a Madi Gras theme, with food DJ, door prizes, and raffles at Makai Brewing Company, 5850 U.S. 17, Ocean Isle Beach. Tickets are $40 in advance for the celebration, which is 5-7 pm.

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

FEB 8

Coastal Consumer Showcase

The Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce presents its annual showcase for area businesses. All are welcome to attend and learn more about the products and services our area business offer. The Showcase is 4-7 pm at the St. James Community Center, 4140 Southport-Supply Road (N.C. 211).

FEB 13

Scottish Influence in North Carolina lecture Musette Steck, a former president of the Southport Historical Society, will share the Scottish values of family and faith, plus their love of working the land along with their affinity for having a good scuffle or two. The talk is at 10 am at Harper Library, 109 W. Moore Street in Southport.

FEB 13

Samara’s Village Pop-up Shop

Samara’s Village will host a “Pop-Up Shop” from 1 to 4 pm at the Port City Community Church, 187 Old Fayetteville Road in Leland. Families with children younger than 3

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“Scurvy: Scourge of the Sailor” lecture Join North Carolina Maritime Museum Director John Moseley at noon for the presentation “Scurvy: Scourge of the Sailor.” The program is part of the museum’s Third Tuesday lecture series, which and is held at the Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St. Lectures are geared for ages 16 years and older. Admission is free and open to the public; however, reservations are required since seating is limited. For more information or to register, call 910-477-5151 or visit ncmaritimemuseumsouthport/ events.

FEB 24

Mardi Gras by the Sea — Oak Island

Laissez le bon temps rouler at Oak

Don’t see your event or location listed? Try as we might, we don’t catch everything, so to be sure to be included send your events to lisa@southportmag.com before the 20th of each month!

are $75 and are on sale at https://www. upyourarts.org/southport-art-spaces/ uya_cf_gala/2024-gala/. The gala is 6-10 pm at the St. James Community Center, 4136 Southport-Supply Road.

Ongoing Events Friends of the Library Southport & Oak Island The Libraries are open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 am to 6 pm; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 am - 6 pm; and Saturdays from 9 am to 5 pm. The Once More used bookstore, at Southport Realty (727 N. Howe St.), with new-to-you books, is open Monday through Friday from 1-3 pm and Saturdays 10 am to noon. Visit https://folsoi. org/blog/ for information on summer youth programs.

Barbee Library, 8200 E. Oak Island Drive: Call 910-278-4283 for details on children’s story time and other programs. Experience Gullah Geechee culture at the NC Rice Festival, March 2 at Brunswick Town

Island’s annual Mardi Gras festival. The parade kicks off at 1 pm at Keziah Street and ends at the Middleton Park Fields (corner of SE46th and Dolphin Drive). The festival runs from noon to 4 pm, and features food vendors, crafters, a “Kids Zone” and live music from local favorite The 52nd Street Band.

MARCH 1

Diamonds and Denim Charity Ball

The Brunswick Sheriff’s Charitable Foundation holds its annual ball, with proceeds to benefit selected local charities. The Ball is 6-10 pm at the St. James Community Center, 4140 Southport-Supply Road (N.C. 211), and will feature dinner, dancing, live and silent auctions, music by Tru Sol and more. Tickets will be available in January; visit https://www.sheriffscharity.com/.

MARCH 2

NC Rice Festival

Indoor and outdoor activities are planned this year, including history/ cultural presentations, tours, demonstrations, live entertainment, family fun, children’s stage, Gullah Geechee

food vendors, and arts/crafts. The festival is free to attend, from 10 am to 5 pm at the Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site, 8884 St Phillips Rd SE, Winnabow (off N.C. 133).

MARCH 2

It’s Our Town clean up — Southport

Join your neighbors in this monthly effort to spruce up the city from 9 am - noon. All you need to bring is your energy, good intentions; tools will be provided. Meet up at the old jail annex at the corner of Rhett and Nash streets at 9 am for a morning of fresh air, weeding, pruning, planting and other gardening work.

MARCH 9

Cool and Fancy Gala — Up Your Arts

This annual fundraiser features acclaimed band leader and saxophonist Leroy Harper, Jr., and his fabulous All Starz, a nine-member lineup of hot jazz, R&B, smooth rock and silky blues. Buffett and wine/beer are included with tickets, and additional signature drinks can be purchased separately. There will also be raffles and a silent auction. Tickets

Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St, Southport: The Lifelong Learners program meets at Harper Library on Wednesdays, 10 am. Call 910-457-6237 to register for programs. One-on-one tech support is offered on Thursdays, 1-3 pm.

NC Maritime Museums Southport, 204 E. Moore St. Hours are 10 am to 4 pm Tuesdays through Saturdays. Sensory Saturdays (low light and quiet time in the museum) are the first Saturday of the month, 10 am to noon. Visit www.ncmaritimemuseum.com to register for special programs.

Franklin Square Art Gallery

The Gallery will be open 10 am to 5 pm Monday through Saturday beginning February 20 and can be found at 130 E. West St., next to Franklin Square Park. The Spring Show begins Feb 19 and runs through March 16.

Bingo at the Elks Lodge Bingo games on the second and fourth Tuesdays at the Lodge, 106 E Dolphin Drive, Oak Island. Games are open to the public; no one under 16 and no outside food or drinks allowed. Doors open to the public at 5:45 pm

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

with games starting at 6:30pm. Snacks and drinks available for purchase (cash or checks only). Progressive Jackpot and winner take all coverall.

Belville Riverwalk Farmers Market

Riverwalk Park, 580 River Road, Belville Thursdays 2-5 pm, Fridays 11 am - 5 pm; Saturdays 10 am - 5 pm and Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm. Fresh seafood, seasonings and all things related to seafood, with the beautiful backdrop of the Brunswick River.

Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site 8884 St. Philip’s Rd. SE, Winnabow

There is plenty to do and see outside, with historic ruins, great information on the site’s history, and some of the most beautiful riverfront property in the County. Hours are 9 am to 5 pm, Tuesday through Saturday.

Museum of Coastal Carolina

21 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach

The Museum is open Thursday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm. Touch tank feedings on Feb 2, 9 and 16, from 11 am to noon

Ingram Planetarium

7625 High Market St., Sunset Beach

Doors open at 10:30 am Thursdays through Saturdays; dome shows start on the hour from 11 am to 3 pm. Laser shows on Fridays and Saturdays at 6 pm and 7 pm. Visit https://museumplanetarium.org/ingram-planetarium/ to see the show schedule

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Odell Williamson Auditorium at Brunswick Community College 150 College Road NW, Bolivia Feb 15 — Credence Revelation

Feb 29 — Supreme Reflections Tribute for Diana Ross and The Supremes March 14 — Cashback — Johnny and June Carter Cash Tribute Visit https://bccowa.com/

WINE, BEER AND COFFEE

American Fish Co 150 Yacht Basin Drive, Southport

Gorgeous views at this waterfront bar, live music, and great conversations.

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Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

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CALENDAR Haven 307 N. Howe St., Southport

This downtown spot features “bites, beer, gelato, wine” with space for live music too.

Southport Coffee Co. & Kitchen 130 E. Moore Street, Southport

Coffee, beer and good food, and an outside courtyard and live music too.

SILVER COAST WINERY ROOM 105 N. Howe St., Southport

TASTING

Brunswick County’s first and only winery and original Craft Beer Bar. Check Facebook for specials, tasting events, and snack tray offerings.

Southport Suzie’s 4956 Long Beach Road (Big Lots shopping center) Frozen yogurt with a toppings bar, desserts, wine and craft beer, charcuterie, and wine tastings. Mondays are Speakeasy night (featuring various speakers), Wednesdays feature wine tastings, trivia and bingo are on Thursdays and live music is on Sundays.

games, trivia, music and open mic nights; check Facebook for details.

Southport Tap & Cellar 827 N. Howe St., Southport

Offering craft beers brought in from across the State. Check Facebook for food truck appearances and trivia nights.

The Mullet Bar 112 Yacht Basin Drive

Open during tourist season, with a great view of the boats coming and going.

THE WINE RACK 102 W. Brown St., Southport.

The shop offers wines, cigars, coffees and accessories and a cozy patio area to relax with a glass of wine and enjoy live music.

THE PUB OF SOUTHPORT 1513 N. Howe St., Unit 10, Southport Check the Pub’s Facebook page for drink specials and food truck appearances. Sports programming on eight TVs and live music too! Bar swag bingo on Tuesday nights.

TIKI TAVERN 104 E. 8th St., Southport Seating

available

outdoors,

with

Get the coastal lifestyle delivered directly to your home. Visit https://cape-fear-box.square.site to order a quarterly subscription Cape Fear Box.

UNCORKED BY THE SEA WINE SHOP & GALLERY 602 N. Howe St. Southport

Shop for a wide variety of wines and craft beers, call 910-454-0633, or shop online at www.uncorkedbythesea.com. Collector wines, crystal stemware and other great gift items also available.

Crossroads Gathering Place 128 Country Club Drive, Oak Island

Enjoy coffee, mimosas and other tasty beverages and treats on the huge waterway porch. Listen to music, shop at one of the many vendors or just relax in a rocking chair.

GRAPE & ALE 8521 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island

Stocked with your old favorites and new wines to try. Check www.thegrapeandale.com, or find them on Facebook for specials and wine tastings.

The Lazy Turtle Oceanfront Grille 601 Ocean Drive, Oak Island

Good food, a great ocean view with gorgeous sunsets. Check Facebook for

music and specials.

SEAHORSE EATS & DRINKS AT OCEAN CREST PIER 1409 E. Beach Drive, Oak Island Sip your favorite drink and watch the beautiful sunsets at the Ocean Crest Pier.

Second Wind Sports Bar 8620 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island Live music, jam night, dancing and great drinks. Open Mic night on Tuesdays.

Bald Head Coffee & Tea House 3481 George II Highway SE (N.C. 8), Boiling Spring Lakes Fresh roast coffee and tea in delicious flavors, plus coffee and tea accessories for purchase. Live music and outdoor seating available too!

The Office Coffee and Wine Bar 3280 George II Highway (NC 87), Boiling Spring Lakes Sit a spell with friends and enjoy a fancy coffee drink, good food, a plain cup of joe or a glass of wine, and grab a bottle for later.

Have you made the trip down to Ocean Isle Beach to check out the Coastal Carolina Museum?

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

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MARKETPLACE 2081 CASTLEBRIDGE COURT NW, CALABASH. 3 BR, 2 BA, 1,703 SF. Set against a serene, wooded buffer, this exquisite home in the charming Spring Mills development of Calabash is waiting for you! Discover numerous upgrades, an open-concept dining and family room, and lofty vaulted ceilings as you step inside this 3-bedroom. Schedule your viewing today and immerse yourself in the allure of this remarkable property! Currently listed at $379,900 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Tami Knecht at 253-380-1527 for details.

3030 MARSH WINDS CIRCLE, UNIT 704, SOUTHPORT. 2 BR, 2 BA, 1,083 SF. Furnished Condo + Lockout Apartment + Club Membership! What more do you need out of your St James property? Enjoy the private Marsh Winds pool just outside your front door, or take a short walk to the Members Clubhouse to take advantage of the amenities there. Featuring the highly sought-after 2nd bedroom lockout with a private entrance, Unit 704 exudes style, luxury, and investment potential. Schedule your private viewing now! Currently listed at $369,500 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Jonathan McLaughlin at 910269-8200 for details.

103 SE 72ND STREET, OAK ISLAND. 6 BR, 7 BA (6 Full, 1 Half) 2,800-SF Build-to-Suit, Representative Photo. Buildto-suit opportunity on the last lot in the gorgeous area of St. James By The Sea on Oak Island!! Completed approximately 10 months after you go under contract, this relaxed, luxury home will have innovative engineering and design, an inverted, open floor plan, and so much more! Reach out to discuss your opportunity to own this slice of paradise! Listed at $1,599,999 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Ceilidh Creech at 910-5534073 for more information.

6158 RIVER SOUND CIRCLE, SOUTHPORT. 3 BR, 2 BA, 2,786 SF, The Landing at Southport Beautiful, low country living at its finest! 6158 River Sound Circle is a gorgeous 3-bedroom property located in Southport’s most sought-after riverfront community, The Landing at Southport. Find yourself in the recently renovated kitchen with vaulted ceilings, solar tube lights, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Numerous popular features like a formal dining room, office, large bonus room, 2-car garage, and outdoor entertaining options like a large, fenced back yard and covered

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

screened porch await. Come view this property during a private showing by contacting us today! Listed at $699,900 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Jonathan McLaughlin at 910-269-8200 for more information or to schedule your viewing.

5234 WALDEN COURT SE, SOUTHPORT, NC, 3 BR, 2 BA, 1,776 SF, Walden Creek Estates Located on a large, elevated lot in Walden Creek Estates, 5234 Walden Court SE is a well-appointed home in an established neighborhood surrounded by nature. Step inside this solid-built home and experience the welcomed atmosphere of a thoughtfully designed floor plan, hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, decorative chair moldings, and an abundance of light. Schedule your private showing of this Southport beauty today! Currently listed at $429,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. John Dosher at 910-448-0536 for details.

3030 MARSH WINDS CIRCLE, UNIT 1102 - ST. JAMES. 2 bed | 2 bath | $329,000. FIRST FLOOR, FULLY FURNISHED condo located in the vibrant private community of St. James Plantation! The main unit offers one bedroom and bathroom with a lockout unit with a one bedroom/

bathroom setup as well. Open the connecting doors to occupy both spaces or lock them and use either side as a rental investment like the current owner. Call Sally Stidham, Southport Realty,Inc., for more information, (910) 540-8320.

803 GORDON LEWIS DRIVE, WINNABOW. 2 bed | 1.5 bath | $359,000. WATERFRONT HOUSE WITH YOUR OWN DOCK AND BOAT RAMP! Successful Airbnb: ‘’Rice Creek Hideaway w/ Private Dock & Boardwalk (Airbnb) Thee ‘Old Bait & Tackle has been Renovated into a 2 Bed, 1 and 1/2 bath tiny house. Private Dock & Pier PLUS its own private Concrete Ramp! This home comes fully furnished with a stackable washer & dryer. Located beside the public boat launch, it hits the Sweet Spot for Water & Fishing Enthusiasts! This property has over 200 feet of private waterfront, and this property is over 1.36 Acres. The quiet surroundings will bring a peacefulness to your life. It would be a perfect primary home, or a weekend fishing camp or make a great Airbnb with no restrictions on use! ++PLUS the gorgeous walkway leading you from the home to your personal floating dock to Catch some Croakers on the Creek! Check out how this former tackle shop has now become a Waterfront Home located on Rice Creek! Call Katherine Wooten, Southport Realty,Inc., for more information, (910) 620-8962.

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1310 N. ATLANTIC AVENUE, SOUTHPORT. 3 bed | 2 bath | $424,700. You Hit the Sweet Spot of Southport! This home has been renovated and sits right outside of the city limits on a .74 acre tract of land. No city taxes & no city sewer could make this charming home your primary residence or possibly an Airbnb investment. New shingles on the roof, newly bolstered foundation, new kitchen & appliances, new bathrooms, sheetrock and trim, flooring and light fixtures! New electric, plumbing, HVAC and a new septic system add to the value of purchasing a home inside of ‘’Southport Proper’’ where all of the work has been done for you. The evening views are enhanced by the picturesque scenery where the Cape Fear River meets the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. This .74 acre lot offers a canvas for your outdoor living dreams. Call Katherine Wooten, Southport Realty, Inc., for more information, (910) 620-8962.

310 CHARLESTOWN ROAD, BOILING SPRING LAKES. 3 bed | 2 bath | $199,500 CUTE-ASA-BUTTON 3-BEDROOM, 2 FULL BATHROOM COTTAGE on a quiet, paved side street in Boiling Spring Lakes! This little gem is a perfect starter home, or a charming oasis for a small family. Recent updates include a new metal roof, new wood siding, updated kitchen cabinets, new light fixtures, LVP flooring and new HVAC system! Call Morgan Quinn, Southport Realty, Inc., for more information, (910) 448-0416.

DINING GUIDE

Find Something Sure To Please Everyone Check out the Dining Guide and what delicious food the local area has to offer! 8004 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-933-4103 www.shaggerjacksoki.com With over 50 beer selections, Shagger Jacks offers an assortment of dishes from steamers to ribs and sweet curry chicken to tacos.

SEAFOOD SPECIALTY

M FISHY FISHY CAFE

106 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport 910-457-1881 www.fishyfishycafe.com A sophisticated take on the dockside seafood café, Fishy Fishy serves up plates like Buffalo shrimp, Cajun grouper bites, and Bacon Wrapped Shrimp.

SOUTHERN, A GATHERING PLACE 105 E. Brown St, Southport 910-931-0786 Elevated Southern Cuisine

M FRYING PAN

SALT 64

319 West Bay St., Southport 910-363-4382 Featuring homemade sweet potato biscuits and fried seafood, as well as other delicacies such as pan seared grouper.

6404 E Oak Island Dr, Oak ISland 910-933-1019 Serving coastal cuisine in an upscale atmosphere

SWAIN’S CUT SEAFOOD

M ISLAND WAY RESTAURANT

1407 E. Beach Dr., Oak Island 910-278-7770 www.islandwayres.com Offering fine steaks, from filet mignon to flat iron, and fresh seafood, from lobster to crab cakes, with attentive service.

KOKO CABANA

705 Ocean Drive, Oak Island (910) 933-6222 Open Tues - Sun. Seafood Specialties, Steaks, Sandwiches, Salads

MOJO’S ON THE HARBOR

16 Marina Way, Bald Head Island 910-457-7217 www.mojoontheharbor.com Featuring Southern classics :fried pickles, shellfish steam pots to global dishes like Italian meat antipasto and Mediterraneans shrimp and grits.

MOORE STREET OYSTER BAR

110 E. Moore Street, Southport (910) 363-5115 Moore Street Oyster Bar is an oyster pub rooted in the traditions of coastal Southern cooking, epitomized by the seaside town of Southport.

M PROVISION COMPANY 130 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport 910-457-0654

www.provisioncompany.com

Offering a la carte seafood sandwiches, conch fritters, steamed shrimp and more.

RUSTY HOOKS DOCKSIDE GRILL

4907 Fish Factory Rd Southport, (910) 477-6616 www.rustyhooksdockside.com Fun dining featuring fresh local seafood and generational recipes, guaranteed to leave a lasting smile on your face. Come join our small piece of paradise along the coast of Carolina; our team looks forward to greeting you. We welcome boaters to pull up to our docks or con-

Pizza and a sandwich at Dry Street Pub & Pizza

tact the Marina Dockmaster on Channel 16, and all others to come down Fish Factory Road and join us for a relaxing meal with a gorgeous view!

SWAIN SEAFOOD SHACK

5119 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island, Phone: (910) 448-5056 Good food for good people. Locally caught seafood, homemade soups and salad bar.

MODERN AMERICAN BACK TO SHUCKERS

6220 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-278-4944 Casual dining in a tropical setting, with Caribbean inspired seafood as well as steaks, chicken, pork and salads. (Opening in May)

EDGEWATER 122

122 Yacht Basin Dr. Southport, (910) 677-6130 Locally Sourced, Hand Crafted Food and Drink served waterfront at the Old Yacht Basin.

OLIVER’S ON THE CAPE FEAR

101 West Bay Street, Southport 910-477-9299 oliversonthecapefear.com Fine dining on the Cape Fear—where exquisite southern cuisine meets the salubrious dishes. We also offer great burgers, steaks, and other southern favorites.

M MR. P’S BISTRO

309 N. Howe St., Southport 910-457-0801 www.mrpsbistro.com Fine low-country cuisine, from crab-stuffed fish du jour to crab cakes and prime rib.

SHAGGER JACKS

8317 E. Oak Island Dr, (910) 933-6300 Serving fresh, local seafood and delicious and creative baked treats.

TRANQUIL HARBOR

5908 E. Oak Island Drive Oak Island Call (910) 250-12944 Casual family restaurant with a variety of dishes, seafood and daily specials.

WINE & BEER

BARBECUE M SOUTHPORT SMOKE HOUSE

1102 N. Howe St., Southport 910-363-5035 www.southportsmokehouse.com Real wood smoked BBQ and brisket, great side items, and a great family environment.

M BAR-B-QUE HOUSE

5002 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-201-1001 www.bestbbqonthebeach.com Hormel ribs are slow d in house and meats are offered with a variety of sauces, from Eastern NC vinegar to Lexington-style red.

CAFES, DELIS & GRILLS 49th STREET BAR AND GRILL

4901 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island

GRAPE AND ALE

8521 E. Oak Island Dr. Oak Island, 910-933-4384 Quaint and eclectic store offering a large selection of wines, beers, and spirits. Perfect for either relaxation or for on the go! Tastings on Fridays 5-8pm,

SILVER COAST WINERY

105 S. Howe St. Southport, 910-777-5151 Brunswick County’s first and only winery and original Craft Beer Bar. Craft Beer and Wine tastings all day, every day! Check out our Facebook page for updated events, specialty beer tastings, and live music.

SOUTHPORT TAP & CELLAR

827 N. Howe St., Southport Huge variety of draught beers, wine, adult slushies and more! Inside and outside seating. Watch our Facebook page for Foodt Truck dates!

THE WINE RACK

102 W. Brown St. Southport, 910-457-5147 Offering a selection of wine, cigars, coffees, and accessories, this quaint shop is perfect for a night out. Great service and over 600 wines to choose from.

UNCORKED BY THE SEA 602 N. Howe St. Southport,

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

910-454-0633 Offering a wide variety of fine wines and craft beers for in-store shopping, curbside pick-up and shopping on-line. Delivering locally. Enjoy sipping wine in the shop while admiring local art or in the courtyard. Wines are available to taste every day. Special orders welcome

Indoor and outside seating will a full menu.

BLUE COW GRILLE

108 Moore Street, Southport 910-363-4402 Serving specialty Burgers,.sanwiches and seafood. Lunch and Dinner

BOB’S DOGS

8903 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-278-3456 • www.bobsdogsoki.com With custom hot dogs featuring an array of ingredients to homestyle sandwiches like chicken salad and burgers.

THE BREAK

5700 E. Oak Island Drive (910) 933-4734 Breakfast and lunch with an island flair

CAROLINA COASTAL CAFE

607 N. Howe Street, Southport (910) 363-4350 Full service breakfast and lunch cafe withfull coffee bar and baked goods

CHASER’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL

8520 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-278-1500 Enjoy BBQ sandwiches, wings, fish ‘n’ chips and more at this sports grill.

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DINING GUIDE ERIC’S GRILLE

1671 N. Howe St., Southport 910-457-9024 Offers old fashioned, hand patted hamburgers, plus bbq, hot dogs, chili cheese fries and breakfast sandwiches and platters.

FAT ANDY’S BURGERS

M SOUTHPORT COFFEE CO. AND KITCHEN

130 E. Moore St., Southport, 910-363-4203 Open for breakfast and lunch, specializing in organic and fairtrade coffee as well as gourmet sandwiches crafted with Boar’s Head deli meats.

OAK ISLAND DELI AND PUB

3196 George II Hwy,Boiling Spring Lakes 910-845-7700 Handmade burgers using 100% ground chuck, plus freshly cut French fries.

5422 E. Oak Island Dr., 910-278-4005 Offering hamburgers, sub sandwiches, salads, wraps, seafood and daily drink specials.

FIXIN’S OKI

5705 E. Oak Island Dr. 910-278-9040 From BLT’s with avocado to Cajun and Reuben sandwiches, & other quality sandwiches.

8300 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island (910) 933-1009 Southern inspired brunch menu served thoughout the day

JERSEY MIKES

5130 Long Beach Rd. SE, Southport 910-477-6261 Subs and sandwiches, fresh salads.

CAFE KOA

302 N Howe St, Southport, 910-363-4206 Gourmet Sandwich Shop & Market With Yummy Goods & Gifts! Soups, Salads & Sandwiches Served Daily!

LITTLE BIT’S GRILL

5902 E. Oak Island Dr. , Oak Island 910-278-6430 A classic burger joint, onion rings and other sides. Breakfast is served, pancakes and bacon.

LAZY TURTLE BAR & GRILL

601 Ocean Drive, Oak Island, 910-278-7725 Oceanfront dining and entertainment that is easy on the wallet and hard to forget. Tiki bar, arcade with two pool tables and plenty of seating to host your work, friend or family fun!

LOCAL’S FAMILY DINER

832 N. Howe St., Southport 910-457-0444 www.localsfamilydiner.com With a warm and friendly atmosphere, Local’s Family Diner serves breakfast all day long and a seafood and entrée menu for lunch and dinner.

LOCO JO’S

602 N. Howe St., #E Fresh, creative asian and American specialties with wine, beer and a now a fully stocked bar

LONERIDER AT OAK ISLAND

57th Place west, Oak Island Lonerider Brew-Stillery outlaws bring award winning brews/bourbons and atmosphere to Oak Island. Enjoy a beer or bourbon with the outlaws, listen to live music, play outdoor games, and raise a toast to craft beer and spirits community. Enjoy delicious food with amazing views of the intercoastal. Limited release, and cool specialty beers/spirits will be available at the Hideout

MOORE DOGS AND MORE 4346 Long Beach Rd, Southport Hot Dogs, BBQ, and MORE!

CHINESE

JAPANESE

ASIAN TASTE

TENGU JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE

1671 N. Howe St., Ste. 3, 910-457-0988 asiantastesouthportnc.com Takeout traditional Chinese food, with staples such as lo mein, sesame chicken, and General Tso’s.

SOUTHPORT GOURMET AND SHI BAR

SU-

4956 Long Beach Rd. SE, 457-9398 Sushi, sashimi, teriyaki, hibachi, tempura and udon noodles all available.

MEXICAN DELPHINA CANTINA

OAK ISLAND SUBS AND SALADS

1643 N. Howe St, Southport (910) 477-9045 Serving a varietry of home-cokked Asian specialties and featuring a full sushi bar.

10 Marina Wynd, Bald Head Island 910-457-1222 delphinacantina.webs.com Mexican cuisine with Spanish and Cuban flare, such as Churrasco Cubano and Pescado Especial—both with plantains.

OASIS BAR AND GRILL

TASTE OF CHINA

KAI JOE’S

INTERNATIONAL

SAN FELIPE

8039 River Rd. SE, Southport 910-454-4004 Shrimp in every style, plus sandwiches; try entrées such as scampi and filet mignon.

THE OFFICE COFFEE & WINE BAR

3280 George II HWY (BSL) Southport NC 910-351-8093 www.theofficecoffeeandwinebar. com We serve Roast Magazine’s 2016 Roaster of the year, Espresso, Coffee Drinks(Hot, Frozen, Iced) Smoothies, Variety of Red/White Wines & Craft Beer. Also Pastries, Trays, Breakfast and Lunch Wraps.

OLD BRIDGE DINER

132 Country Club Dr., Oak Island 910-250-1184 A casual diner featuring breakfast & lunch, from fluffy omelets to burgers and fried chicken sandwiches. Open 6am - 2pm

THE SAUCY SOUTHERNER

501 N Howe Street, Southport (910) 477-6065 Offering breakfast & lunch with a southern twist. Real Good Feel Good, Food.

SUNSET GRILL

5119 E. Oak Island Dr, 910-933-6137 Mediterranean Cuisine with a Lebanese influence

TROLLY STOP

111 S. Howe St., Southport 910-457-7017 www.trollystophotdogs.com A staple in NC, Trolly Stop is renowned across the nation for its one of a kind hot dogs.

TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFÉ

1671 N. Howe St. #1A, Southport 910-363-4908 www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com Bold, flavorful food and smoothies with a healthy appeal. Our items are made to order with fresh, simple, superior ingredients.

WILDLIFE RESTAURANT & GRILL

4381 Fish Factory Rd., Southport 910-457-9953 www.wildlifegrill.webs.com Serving a full range of items on our menu from breakfast to home cooked meals.

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

4956 Long Beach Rd., Southport, 457-1838 Serving Cantonese, Szechuan and Hunanstyle Chinese food.

M PORTS OF CALL

116 N. Howe St., Southport, 457-4544 www.portsofcallbistro.com Offering choices that are largely influenced by dishes from across the globe. Menu items and specials can whisk your palette from Casablanca to Barcelona, Santorini to Mumbai, and from Marseilles to Munich or Charleston. Finish with a fresh baked dessert in the romantic atmosphere.

ITALIAN M BELLA CUCINA

5177 SouthportSupply Rd., Southport 910-454-4540 www.belladiningnc.com Focusing on family Italian recipes, Bella Cucina serves up everything from fine and fresh local seafood to hand tossed, New York style pizzas. Aside from a decadent wine list, Bella Cucina also offers specialty martinis.

CASTUCCI’S AN ITALIAN JOINT 4332 Long Beach Rd, Southport 910-477-6755 Family Italian restaurant

D’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

2831 Midway Rd Ste 106 (910) 253-8151 Serving Itaiian entrees, pizza and sandwiches.

FALCONE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

5013 Southport Crossing Way, Southport 910) 363-8000 Serving home cooked Itailan specialties in a friendly atmosphere.

M JOSEPH’S ITALIAN BISTRO

5003 O’Quinn Blvd., Southport, 454-4440 www.josephsitalianbistro.com Armed with decades of experience and “secret” family recipes, Joseph’s Italian Bistro appeals with candlelit dining and fresh Italian continental cuisine.

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4722 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island Phone: (910) 622-1509 Traditional Mexican dishes and specialties. 1671 N. Howe St., Ste. 1, Southport & 4961 Long Beach Rd. SE 910-454-0950 Serving authentic dishes, such as fajitas, enchiladas and chalupas, fresh salsa and margaritas; serves traditional Mexican dishes.

TACO & BURITTO SHACK 3261 Hwy 87, BSL 910-351-0179

DINING GUIDE SIDE STREAT TAKE OUT

524 N Howe St., Southport 910-363-4113 Tex-Mex style cuisines at a local take-out joint.

PIZZERIAS BAMBINI’S PIZZERIA

1513 N Howe St, Southport 477-9352 A New York Style Pizzeria featuring homemade pizza, pasta, desserts, etc. Also serving a selection of beer and wine.

BEACH ROAD PIZZA AND WINGS

4688 Long Beach Rd, Southport Pizzas, wings, fries, desserts

DRY STREET PUB AND PIZZA

101 E. Brown St., Southport 457-5994 www.drystreetpubandpizza.com Known for handmade, original pizzas—including Margherita, “very veggie,” and Greek. Also offers salads, soups and gourmet sandwiches.

FAMOUS SUBS AND PIZZA

1541 N. Howe St., Southport • 457-5143 Recognized regionally for outstanding gyros, calzones and pizzas.

MO’S WOOD FIRED KITCHEN

4956 Old Long Beach Road SE ,Southport Wood Fired Pizzas, Burgers, Salads & Wings

PIZZA SHACK

6212 E. Oak Island Dr., • 278-6781 Offering a variety of pies from classic favorites to Greek white and Hawaiian.

THE PEPPERONI GRILL

3156 George II Hwy, Boiling Spring Lakes 845-5151 • www.pepperonigrillnc.com Offering eat in, take out and delivery. As well, offering oven toasted subs and calzones.

PEPPERONI GRILL AT THE BEACH

4320 East Beach Drive • 250-1190 www.pepperonigrillnc.com Open 7 days a week year round. Offering eat in, take out as well as delivery.

Solar Brewing

8108 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island

Oak Island’s first and only brewery! Also featuring pizza, wings and even a giant pretzel!

DOMINO’S (SOUTHPORT)

1671 N Howe St #1b, Southport (910) 457-0083

DOMINO’S (OAK ISLAND)

(910) 363-5072 Asian delicasies for dine-in or take-out

ICE CREAM

THAI AND VINE

106 SE 58th Street (910) 933-1025 Southeast Asian specialties

CHUCK’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM 5021 Southport Crossing Way, Southport (910) 363-0208 Featuring delicious home made ice cream.

BAKERIES/ COFFEE

BALD HEAD COFFEE & TEA HOUSE

3481 George II Hwy (Hwy 87), Boiling Spring Lakes 800-484-8399 Serving coffe and tea drinks along with breakfast sandwiches, croissanta and other goodies. Drive-thru available.

Crossroads Gathering Place 128 Country Club Drive

Enjoy wine, beer or coffee and sit a spell on the porches out back, with a view of the Intracoastal Waterway and Oak Island’s Barbee Bridge.

BURNEY’S BAKERY

808 N. Howe St., Southport 454-4222 Known for their light and flaky filled croissants with a sweet sugar glaze, plus more.

ISLAND JO COFFEE ‘N CAFE

7916 E. Oak Island Drive (910) 250-1677 Homemade bagels, breakfast sandwiches, quiche, specialty coffees and sandwiches.

5701 E. Oak Island Dr.,• 278-5371 Featuring the iconic Blizzards, waffle-bowl sundaes, and more frozen treats. *Call for other nearby locations.

FLAVA’S COFFEE AND ICE CREAM 310 W. Bay St., Southport • 457-5150 Ice Cream at the Yacht Basin

HAVEN

307 N. Howe St., Southport Bites, Beer, Gelato, Wine

LIL & JOHN’S SWEETREAT HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

6324 East Oak Island Drive. Family-owned and operated. Featuring 16 flavors of ultra-premium, homemade ice cream. We use only dairy from grass-fed North Carolina cows and never add artificial flavors or colors.

SEASIDE MERMAID

6102 E. Oak Island Drive Enjoy sweet treats, ice cream and coffee right

201 N. Howe St., Southport, 477-9117 More than just ice cream, Spike’s offers great hot dogs as well.

THE SCOOP SHOP

4922 East Oak Island Dr, OKI 910-250-1321 The best ice cream on the beach! Plus made to order cake donuts and fresh hot donuts!

SOUTHPORT SUZIE’S

4956 Old Long Beach Rd. Suite 1, Southport 910-363-4188 Frozen Yogurt & Desserts; Wine & Beer, Outside seating

SUGAR DADDIES

5119 E. Oak Island Drive Ice Cream and Dip-n-Dots

TIKI PINEAPPLE WHIPS

4602 E. Beach Drive, Oak Island (910) 632-0598 Dole Whip pineapple frozen treats right at the beach!

TROPICAL TREATS

5811 E. Oak Island Drive Ice Cream, Italian Ice, Coffee, Ho,me Made Fudge

4022 Old Bridge Rd., Southport • 363-4841 We carry a large variety of gluten free/vegan baked goods, as well as homemade coffee cakes and muffins. Delicious and decadent specialty drinks: lattes, mochas, frapps, hot chocolate, Chai teas and more.

PORT CITY JAVA

113 N. Howe Street, Southport 454-0321 www.portcityjava.com We serve coffees, espresso drinks, fruit smoothies, milkshakes, fresh juices, breakfast and lunch sandwiches and wraps all day. Open year round. Complimentary WiFi. Comfortable inside and outside seating. Coffee catering available.

RUBY’S COFFEEHOUSE AND ERY

EAT-

At the Oak Island Pier, 705 Ocean Dr. Oak Island Serving bagels, croissants, sandwiches, hot dogs and coffee right at the pier.

SEASIDE MERMAID

6102 E Oak Island Drive Enjoy sweet treats, ice cream and coffee right next to Mermaid Cove. Outside seating available.

THAI

SIDE STREET BAKERY

1131 N. Atlantic Ave, Southport

M DAIRY QUEEN

SPIKE’S DAIRY BAR

JUMPIN’ JAVA OAK ISLAND

5003 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island (910) 278-9111 Delivery/carryout chain offering a wide range of pizza, plus chicken & other sides.

INDOCHINE EXPRESS

next to Mermaid Cove. Outside seating available.

lime pie, and carrot cake.

417-A N. Howe Street, Southport 363-4629 Locals suggest the cupcakes, lemon bars, key

Available at: THE PAINTED MERMAID Handcrafted Pottery

817 N Howe Street, Southport

w w w. B l u e E a r t h Wo r k s . c o m

SOUTHPORT, NC • BREVARD, NC • FLETCHER, NC • NORTHEAST, MD • BLUEEARTHWORKS.ETSY.COM

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Southport Magazine 63

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Southport Magazine 64